A CLASSICAL music producer from South Tyneside who worked with some of the world’s top artists has died.
John H West had fought a year-long battle with cancer.
Mr West, 62, who was born in South Shields, worked with record giants Virgin and EMI and British stars such as Sir John Gielgud and Dame Judi Dench, as well as fine-tuning the work of both the Halle and Liverpool Philarmonic Orchestra.
Mr West, who studied at South Shields Grammar Technical School before leaving to read music at York University, also produced for Sir Yehudi Menuhin, considered one of the greatest violinists of the 20th century.
Mr West died on Friday, January 11.
His partner Louis Hawksby, 71, who met John while both were at York University 43 years ago, paid a warm tribute to a man dedicated to his craft.
Mr Hawksby, who lived in Long Bennington, Lincolnshire, with Mr West up until his death, said: “He was dedicated to music.
“He went around the world, to Canada, the United States, Spain and France. It was his passion.
“I’ve had lots of well-wishers from artists, such as the violinist Tasmin Little. Lots of artists loved working with him.
“Once they find a producer they like, they never want to let them go.”
Mr Hawksby says Mr West never forgot his South Shields roots, however many star names he rubbed shoulders with.
Mr Hawksby said: “He liked South Shields and always said what a nice place it is. We used to visit his parents there.”
The highly-respected producer was diagnosed with lung cancer in December, 2011, despite never smoking in his life.
Mr Hawksby added: “He was told he had 18 months to live but he died after just over a year.
“He was very bad towards the end. It was very sad, but I also thought at least he’s not going through any more pain. It can strike anyone of any age at any time.
Mr West’s funeral will be held tomorrow in Grantham, with a memorial concert being held at the Guildhall in York on February 23.
Twitter: @shieldsgazchris
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